If you’re named on a valid HC3 certificate, you may not have to pay for all your NHS dental treatment. HC2 and HC3 certificates are issued under the NHS Low Income Scheme - see below

You will not be exempt from paying for NHS dental treatment because you receive one of the benefits below when paid on their own:

Incapacity Benefit

Contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance

Disability Living Allowance

Council Tax Benefit

Housing Benefit

Pension Credit savings credit

If you are included in an award of Universal Credit, and your net earnings for the most recent assessment period must also be £435 or less (or £935 or less if your Universal credit includes an element for a child or you have limited capability for work).

Proof of your entitlement

You’ll be asked to show your dentist written proof that you’re entitled to help with dental treatment costs. This will vary depending on your circumstances.

NHS Low Income Scheme

The NHS Low Income Scheme provides income-related help to people not exempt from charges but who may be entitled to full or partial help with healthcare costs if they have a low income. Anyone can apply as long as they don’t have savings or investments over the capital limit. In England, the capital limit is £16,000 (or £23,250 if you live permanently in a care home).

Help is based on a comparison between your weekly income and assessed requirements at the time the claim is made. Entitlement broadly follows Income Support rules to decide how much, if anything, you have to pay towards your healthcare costs, including dental treatment costs.